Coventry 21 Cinderford 15

A stonewall defence and the accuracy of Luke Myring’s goalkicking secured victory over a Cinderford side that dominated possession and territory for long periods at a wet Butts Park Arena, but were unable to make it count.

And while Cov’s overall performance – particularly in the line-out and scrum – left questions, the progress made in those other key areas will have outweighed any negatives.

There is little doubt that this was a game that the Cov of last season – leaking tries as quickly as they scored them and struggling for a reliable kicker – would have lost.

But shrewd recruiting and some hard work on the training ground has, on this display, addressed both areas and the addition of the experienced Myring with his organisational skills in midfield and accurate boot already looks like the move of the year.

Given little ball to work with, Cov’s backs had little chance to shine in attack, but their defence alongside forwards, led by the indefatigable Alex Nash, was outstanding against a battering ram approach by Cinderford.

Clinical finishing also came into the mix, Cov scoring on the only three occasions they got within range in the first half to establish a 15-6 lead and, despite a faltering set piece, keeping their noses in front after the break courtesy of Myring’s kicking despite rarely threatening another try.

Click here for more on this article.